The poll tax sparked the Peasants’ Revolt of 1381 in England.
A poll tax is a levy charged per person rather than directly on land or property. England imposed a series of such taxes in 1377, 1379, and 1381 to help finance the costly war with France. The third levy was especially unpopular because collectors demanded money from broad sections of the population, including many people with little cash income.
Although commonly described as a flat tax, the 1381 assessment combined a minimum charge with graduated payments. The poorest were expected to pay at least 4 pence, while the intended average was 12 pence per person. Tax collectors’ attempts to investigate evasion and force payment intensified resentment in villages and towns.
The tax was a major trigger, but not the only cause of the revolt. Workers and peasants also opposed restrictions on wages, feudal obligations, corruption, and the power of local officials. In June 1381 rebels from Kent and Essex marched on London, led by figures including Wat Tyler. King Richard II initially promised reforms, but the movement collapsed after Tyler was killed and the concessions were withdrawn.